Multivariable Transmitter: What Is It and How Does It Work?

Brian Craig

March 12, 2021

Industrial operations are majorly dependent on different parameters, which require, regular monitoring, and control. Multivariable transmitters are one of the most used instruments for monitoring variables in various industrial processes. The multivariable transmitters are the transmitters that measure multiple parameters. Popular multivariable transmitters like Rosemount transmitter 3051 are designed to measure mass flow, differential pressure, temperature, and absolute pressure. These types of transmitters are utilized in a vast range of industrial applications such as water transport systems, marine operations, thermal systems, gas transport, etc. However, in order to implement these transmitters in your industrial applications, you must know what it exactly is and how does it work. This post discusses what a multivariable transmitter is and its working principle.

A Brief Discussion on Multivariable Transmitters

The multivariable transmitters are devices specifically designed to measure three process parameters and calculate the flow during an active industrial operation. These types of transmitters offer static pressure, differential pressure, and temperature measurement along with a flow calculator. It features local flow indicators to calculate accurate mass flow reading. However, the mass flow calculations are based on the earlier measurements of static pressure, differential pressure, and temperature.

These transmitters are active parts of industrial applications that require instant or active measurements of temperature fluctuations, volumetric flow, totalized flow, energy variations, etc.

Now, let us discuss how the Rosemount multivariable transmitter work.

Working Principle of Rosemount Multivariable Transmitters

The following pointers will help you understand the overall working of a Rosemount multivariable transmitter.

The multivariable transmitters feature three sensors in a single design. It consists of a static pressure sensor, a differential pressure sensor, and a temperature sensor integrated into a capsule sensor design.
Further, the local flow indicator is integrated into the capsule design to record the flow of mass passing through the system. The mass flow recorded by the local indicator is sent to the computer-based monitoring and controlling panel. The three readings of static pressure, differential pressure, and temperature are sent to the control panel. In case of continuous fluctuations, the readings are updated in a frequent time-lapse cycle.
The computerized monitoring and controlling units are set with a coded formula, which gives a calculated value of the mass flow reading. The formula functionality is based on the HART protocol that helps in monitoring, control, and calculations in a time-lapse cycle.

This way, the Rosemount 3051 multivariable transmitters offer 4 different values at any given point in time.

To take advantage of these advanced transmitters, it is important to purchase them from a trusted supplier, also the proper installation and maintenance services must be sourced. The Transmitter Shop is a prominent supplier of high-quality, authentic, Rosemount multivariable transmitters including Rosemount 3051s transmitters and other process control devices. The Texas-based company is recognized for its high-quality transmitter supply along with installation, maintenance, and calibration services to their clients.